Museum hires VP of HR

Museum hires VP of HR

Mari Beth Johnson-Jelks. Courtesy Grand Rapids Public Museum

There’s a new executive at a downtown museum.

The Grand Rapids Public Museum hired Mari Beth Johnson-Jelks as VP of human resources, according to the museum last week.

Johnson-Jelks is responsible for HR oversight and strategy.

Her role includes fostering a productive workforce, providing public services to the community, offering community engagement opportunities and delivering customer service.

“It’s such a privilege and an exciting time to join the museum’s leadership team,” Johnson-Jelks said.

She called the position a “great opportunity" to “assist the museum in achieving progress on its diversity and inclusion objectives.”

Previously, Johnson-Jelks was the managing director of administrative services for the city of Grand Rapids.

She has also served as the city’s labor relations director and chief negotiator, as well as its human resources director.

During her tenure with the city, she established the first 311 Customer Service Center, launched a city-wide Grow Our Own local talent recruitment initiative and other employee development programs. 

“Mari Beth brings prior experience and is a proven leader, and we’re pleased to have her in-depth knowledge as a part of our team,” said Dale Robertson, president and CEO, Grand Rapids Public Museum.